Noteboom The Law Firm

The VA’s Green Year In Review

February 2, 2011 - Federal laws dictate energy compliance standards for federal agencies. Executive Order 13423 mandates federal agencies must increase the amount of their required energy needs from renewable energy sources. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to take at least 5% of their energy requirements from renewable sources by 2012.

The requirements and the dates are set. Now it is just a matter of the VA coming into compliance and operating more energy efficient facilities. The last year was a busy one for VA facilities all over the country as they created and put into operation many new programs, hardware, ideas, and projects. Everything the VA has done is geared toward creating a healthier environment and providing better care for veterans.

Topping the list of the VA's "green" achievements in 2010 is the establishment of the VA's energy-savings program. The VA used the last year to:

• Build 21 solar energy projects;
• Design and install 2 wind turbines;
• Put geothermal systems into operation at 14 different sites;
• Begin work on renewably-fueled fuel cells.

Additionally, a total of 25 VA-owned buildings have been rated "green," which means 13% of VA-owned square footage is sustainable. Over 40% of the VA's vehicle fleet is capable of running on alternative fuels, which can refuel at over 14 VA-owned alternative fuel stations with more on the way. Finally, the VA has installed electrical meters to help track energy consumption.

The VA is also making efforts to ensure both employees and the public are given information on how to "go green." Continuing the VA's ongoing effort to stay involved with their local community, various VA facilities are focusing on reducing waste while contributing food to non-profit organizations aiming to help homeless veterans.